Ten Toronto residents who were part of a group trekking in Nepal are currently missing following severe flash floods that struck the region recently. Leslie Crespi, a representative of the Isha Foundation in North America, disclosed that these individuals are among a larger group of 80 members associated with the foundation who are currently unaccounted for.
Of the 10 missing individuals, 12 were Canadians participating in the trek. Crespi mentioned that there has been no communication with any of the 80 individuals since the incident occurred. The group had reached a Chinese immigration center in Gyirong County, Tibet when the flash floods hit the area.
The trek’s coordinator contacted the Isha Foundation shortly before the flooding, and since then, no further communication has been established. The group, consisting of participants from 19 different countries, had been on a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash in Tibet, a significant journey for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers.
Crespi expressed the deep shock and impact on the families of the missing group members, emphasizing the close-knit bond within the community. Meanwhile, Nepali community leaders in Mississauga convened an emergency meeting to discuss strategies for locating the missing individuals and called upon the Canadian government for assistance in the search and rescue efforts.
Global Affairs Canada has reported approximately 30 missing Canadian citizens and permanent residents in Nepal and Tibet. Consular officials are actively working to establish contact with the missing individuals and confirm their safety amidst the challenging conditions. Additionally, GlobalMedic, a disaster relief charity based in Etobicoke, has offered its support by providing water purification units, emergency kits, and drones to aid those affected by the disaster in Nepal.